By PETER DOUGLAS
MOUNTAIN District Christian School has become the first school nationally to commit to a novel Planet Ark-driven renewable energies program.
In a conscious effort to reduce the school’s carbon footprint, the school has teamed up with the environmental organisation to install a 20kw solar panel system on its gym roof.
The joint scheme is a (PPA) power purchase agreement, whereby the school receives the panels free but Planet Ark sells electricity to the school at a reduced cost.
The panels will be gifted to the school in 15 years’ time.
The school’s business manager Tony Drummond said the initiative would benefit the school for years to come.
He added the project was part of the school’s commitment to the environment.
“We’ve completed a few similar initiatives,” he said.
“Recently the school changed every light to LED, which cost the school $40,000, but will pay for itself in five to six years,” he said.
“We’ve reduced our waste by 60 per cent, and have chooks and worm farms.”
The school officially unveiled the program yesterday before a host of dignitaries, including Victorian Deputy Premier James Merlino, chief executive officer of Planet Ark Paul Klymenko and Yarra Ranges councillor Jim Child.
Also present was Research and Technical manager at Planet Ark Dr Sean O’Malley.
During the event, there were speeches and the unveiling of a plaque in front of the guests and the Year 9 Environmental Science class, as well as school staff, board members and parents.
